Local law enforcement looks at new ideas as chief is honored by FBI

It would seem like a once in a lifetime opportunity for, not only Elsberry Police Chief Robert Bodley, but for the town of Elsberry as he has been selected by the FBI to attend the 2013 Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS).

Begun in 1981, LEEDS is designed for chief executive officers of the nation’s mid-sized law enforcement agencies to learn, exchange and train on a variety of topics and issues.

“This seminar is for officers of smaller departments to reflect on the next stage of their careers,” explained Bodley. “We will be able to reflect and regroup as we are provided with instruction and facilitation in the areas of leadership, strategic planning, legal issues, labor and media relations, social issues and police programs.”

The environment of the seminar is conducive to independent thought and study, where participants will have the opportunity to exchange plans, problems and solutions with other like-minded officers.

“One of the biggest advantages I believe this will provide for myself and the community is the ability to develop new thoughts and ideas, as well as sharing successes of our own community,” said Bodley. “The interaction amongst officers is something this seminar promotes as some of the most productive learning takes place outside of the classroom during evening conferences and meals.”

A Chief with a staff of less than 50 sworn officers can apply for this seminar. However, only 40 are selected each year to attend from Eastern Missouri and Southwest Illinois. LEEDS as graduated approximately 1,300 executives and is considered a true honor by those selected to go. At the end of the Seminar, Bodley will be presented with a plaque of completion and a new outlook on how to handle many of the day-to-day operations and problems in Elsberry.

“I am very excited and honored to have been selected and given the opportunity to attend this,” said Bodley. “My goal is to bring back ideas and programs to help our community, as I am always looking for new ways to better serve our City, keep the residents safe and keep them involved.”

According to their website, http://fbi.gov. The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders that serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide.

Its mission is “to support, promote and enhance the personal and professional development of law enforcement leaders by preparing them for complex, dynamic, and contemporary challenges through innovative techniques, facilitating excellence in education and research, and forging partnerships throughout the world.”

Following graduation, each officer has the opportunity to join the FBI National Academy Associates, a dynamic organization of approximately 15,000 law enforcement professionals who actively work to continue developing higher levels of competency, cooperation and integrity across the law enforcement community.

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